Introduction to the Optex FLX‑S‑ST FlipX PIR Detector and key features
Optex FLX‑S‑ST (FlipX Standard)is a hard‑wired indoor passive infrared (PIR) motion detector designed for residential and light‑commercial intruder alarm systems. Its standout feature is a 180° rotatable flip lens that lets installers switch rapidly between two distinct detection patterns: a wide coverage pattern (12 m × 85°) for open areas and a narrow/curtain pattern (18 m × 5°) for corridors, doorways and perimeter protection. The unit incorporates an improved human‑shape pyroelectric element plus Optex SMDA logic to enhance detection of people while reducing false alarms and improving pet tolerance. Intended for professional installations, the FLX‑S‑ST is EN Grade 2 compatible and offers practical wiring and mounting options for contractors and integrators.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The FLX‑S‑ST packs a range of practical design decisions that balance detection performance, false‑alarm immunity and installation convenience. Below is a breakdown of the key specification areas and what they mean in real‑world use.
- Model & series:FLX‑S‑ST, FlipX (FlipX Standard).
- Supplier code:ITM002483.
- Product type:Wired indoor PIR motion detector suitable for EN Grade 2 intruder systems.
- Dual detection patterns:The flip lens offers Wide mode (12 m × 85°) and Narrow/Curtain mode (18 m × 5°). Wide mode suits general room coverage; Narrow mode provides focused perimeter or corridor protection.
- Detection zones:Approximately 76 zones in Wide and 12 zones in Narrow — this granularity improves sensitivity to human movement while preserving stability against environmental noise.
- Sensitivity settings:Three selectable sensitivity levels (High / Medium / Low) let installers tune the detector to site conditions and reduce nuisance alarms.
- Warm‑up & alarm timing:Warm‑up period is around 60 seconds; alarm period 2.0 ± 0.5 seconds, ensuring reliable event signalling to the alarm panel.
- False‑alarm resistance:Optex SMDA (Signal‑processing Microprocessor Digital Algorithm) logic and a human‑shape pyroelectric element increase detection of humans while suppressing false triggers from non‑human heat sources and small animals.
- Power input:9.5–16 V DC (standard for wired intruder systems).
- Current draw:Approximately 8 mA (normal), up to 11 mA (max) at 12 V DC — useful when calculating panel load and wiring lengths.
- Outputs:Alarm relay output (N.C., 24 V DC, 0.1 A max) and tamper output (N.C., 24 V DC, 0.1 A max) for cover removal detection. Indicator LED is switchable.
- Operating temperature:−20 °C to +50 °C.
- Relative humidity:Up to 95% (non‑condensing), suitable for most indoor installations.
- Dimensions:Approximately 129.2 × 61.5 × 50.9 mm (H × W × D), compact for wall or corner mounting.
- Weight:≈ 90 g (without bracket), keeping overall device weight low and simple to install.
- Mounting:Wall or corner mounting at recommended heights between 2.0 and 3.0 m.
- Body colour:White (typical), blends into most interiors.
- LED indicator:Switchable — can be disabled where discretion is required.
- Manual & compliance:Refer to the official Optex FLX‑S‑ST installation manual for wiring diagrams, mounting orientation and EN Grade 2 compatibility details. Always isolate power before wiring.
- Warranty:Check supplier terms; the unit as supplied here shows no included warranty information, so confirm with your distributor.
Benefits in real‑world terms
The combination of a flip lens and improved detection logic delivers several installer and end‑user benefits:
- Flexible coverage:One device can cover two common scenarios — open rooms and narrow passageways — reducing the number of different detector types an installer must stock.
- Reduced false alarms:SMDA logic and the optimised detection element lower nuisance alarms from small pets, curtain movements or electrical noise, saving time on site visits and improving end‑user confidence.
- Simple integration:Standard voltage and relay outputs make the FLX‑S‑ST straightforward to integrate with most alarm control panels used in EN Grade 2 systems.
- Installation speed:Compact design, clear mounting heights and switchable LED make setup fast and convenient for professional installers.
Use cases and scenarios where the FLX‑S‑ST excels
The dual‑pattern nature of the FLX‑S‑ST means it suits a variety of deployment scenarios. Here are common installations where the FlipX design provides clear advantages.
- The Narrow/Curtain (18 m × 5°) mode creates a thin, focused detection beam ideal for hallways, entrances, loft ladders and perimeter zones where you want detection along a line rather than across a wide area. This reduces coverage overlap with adjacent detectors and can be used to protect specific access routes.
- In Wide mode the FLX‑S‑ST covers open living spaces, offices or retail zones up to 12 m with a broad field of view. This makes it practical for homes and small commercial premises where a single detector can provide robust coverage.
- SMDA logic and the detector’s sensitivity adjustments help to avoid false alarms triggered by small animals. While not a dedicated pet‑immune device for large animals, the FLX‑S‑ST performs well in typical household environments with small pets.
- Because the lens flips between two patterns, installers can carry one SKU to cover multiple scenarios — useful for retrofit projects where on‑site conditions may require a change of coverage type.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When choosing a PIR detector, buyers typically weigh coverage type, false‑alarm performance, installation flexibility and compatibility with panels. Here’s how the FLX‑S‑ST compares to common alternatives.
- Fixed wide‑angle detectors are simple and inexpensive but lack the FLX‑S‑ST’s adaptability. If a single device must cover both corridors and open rooms, a fixed lens may underperform. The FlipX lens reduces the need to choose between two separate products.
- Curtain sensors deliver very narrow, defined coverage and can be optimised for protecting perimeters or display windows. The FLX‑S‑ST’s Narrow mode approximates a curtain pattern while still offering the fallback Wide mode — useful where a dedicated curtain sensor would otherwise be required.
- True pet‑immune PIRs and dual‑tech (PIR+microwave) detectors may outperform the FLX‑S‑ST in environments with large animals or extreme false‑alarm risk. However, those devices are typically pricier. The FLX‑S‑ST offers a balance: improved pet tolerance and lower nuisance alarms at a lower system cost compared with premium dual‑tech options.
- Wireless detectors simplify installation but require batteries and may introduce RF considerations. As a wired detector with modest current draw (≈8 mA), the FLX‑S‑ST is a reliable choice for professional systems where hard wiring is preferred for permanent installations and EN Grade 2 compliance.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
Below are anonymised, representative snippets of installer and integrator feedback that reflect common themes from professional use (these are illustrative examples rather than quotes from identified individuals):
- "The flip lens is a genuine time saver — one part covers both hallways and open rooms during a single site visit."
- "SMDA logic noticeably reduced repeat nuisance calls from the homeowner. Good balance of sensitivity and stability."
- "Compact and easy to mount. Wiring and current draw make it simple to add into existing panels without load headaches."
These types of reports are typical among installers who value flexibility, consistent detection and low maintenance in everyday alarm work.
Conclusion: Why the Optex FLX‑S‑ST FlipX is a strong choice
TheOptex FLX‑S‑ST FlipXis a practical, professional‑grade wired PIR detector that addresses common challenges in intrusion detection: variable site geometry, nuisance alarms and integration with alarm panels. Its 180° flip lens gives installers two distinct coverage patterns in one compact body, reducing SKU counts and on‑site guesswork. Combined with Optex’s SMDA detection logic, selectable sensitivity and standard wiring outputs, it is a dependable choice for residential and light‑commercial EN Grade 2 applications.
For projects where flexibility, ease of installation and reliable human detection are priorities, the FLX‑S‑ST offers a competitive mix of performance and value. As always, consult the official Optex installation manual and your local regulatory requirements before installation, and confirm warranty and support details with your supplier.
